PH bets UST, JRU brace for Japan–Korea test in Pinoyliga Global Invitational

Philippine collegiate contenders are set to measure their progress against some of Asia’s rising basketball programs as University of Santo Tomas and Jose Rizal University banner the local challenge in the Pinoyliga Global Invitational Cup Series.

The tournament, staged by Pinoyliga as part of its growing international initiative, brings in Japan’s powerhouse Tokai University along with visiting squads from South Korea, creating a rare regional matchup for teams from both the UAAP and NCAA Philippines.

For the Growling Tigers and the Heavy Bombers, the event serves as more than just a preseason tune-up—it is a benchmark opportunity against disciplined international systems known for pace, spacing, and structured development.

Tokai University arrives with a competitive core that includes B.League-linked players Todoroki Rui, Togaeri Shori, and Sato Yu, the latter also part of Japan’s under-21 national pool. The program’s reputation for producing elite talent continues to resonate across Asia, most notably through former standout Yuki Kawamura, who previously had a stint with the Memphis Grizzlies and is now with the Chicago Bulls.

Another Tokai alumnus, Takuya Nakamaya, currently plays for the Akita Northern Happinets, further underscoring the program’s strong pipeline to professional basketball.

Pinoyliga Cup director Benny Benitez emphasized that exposing local squads to international competition remains a key objective.

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The UST Growling Tigers capture their first-ever Pinoyliga Global Invitational Cup title after edging out the UE Red Warriors, 80-71, and completing an undefeated tournament run at the Enderun Gym on Sunday, March 30.

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“We all know that UST is one of the top teams in the UAAP following a Final Four stint in the last UAAP and they are gearing up for another semifinals run this year, while the JRU Heavy Bombers, with their recent build-up for the NCAA, is a very solid team this year,” said Benitez.

The inclusion of South Korean schools Korea University and Sangmyung University builds on Pinoyliga’s earlier Asian window initiative, where Korean collegiate teams tested local programs in fast-paced matchups that highlighted the evolving regional style of play.

Event organizer Prime Edge continues to expand the tournament’s international footprint, positioning the series as a developmental bridge between Philippine college basketball and its Asian counterparts. 

Due to schedule constraints, Tokai will play three straight days before returning to Japan, adding urgency and intensity to the compact four-team format. A third Philippine squad is still being finalized to complete the field.

All games are set at the gym of Enderun Colleges in Taguig, where local fans will get an early glimpse of how Philippine collegiate teams stack up against some of the region’s most structured programs.

With UST and JRU carrying the home banner, the Invitational Cup becomes not just a preseason tournament—but an early proving ground for Philippine teams aiming to keep pace with Asia’s evolving basketball landscape. 

The Growling Tigers are also aiming to defend their crown after defeating the UE Red Warriors in last year’s edition. 

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